And then there was 21 - The 2008 International Soca Monarch Finalists announced

Defending Groovy champion Biggie Irie performing at the 2007 Int'l Soca Monarch Finals

Trinidad - Wednesday January 23, 2008 - Twenty one fnalists have been announced to compete at 'Fantastic Friday' (Int'l Soca Monarch Finals) to be held on Carnival Friday February 1st at the Queens Park Oval.

Current Groovy Soca Monarch champ Biggie Irie will defend against fellow Bajan Mr Dale, Tizzy (from Barbados). All the other competitors are Trinidad based.

In the Power Soca Monarch category, Iwer defends against old time rival Bunji Garlin, his wife Faye-Ann Lyons, plus several other island representatives; including Problem Child (St Vincent, Ricky T (St Lucia), Nnika Francis (Grenada) and Luni and Electrify (Grenada).

The power and groovy soca monarch finalists are as follows:
(in order of appearance)

2008 Groovy Soca Monarch Finalists
Tizzy (Antigua)
Skhi
Mr Dale (Barbados)
Kerwin Dubois
Patrice Roberts
Shurwayne Winchester
Farmer Nappy
Tony Prescott
Peter C Lewis
Biggie Irie (Barbados)

2008 Power Soca Monarch Finalists
Ricky T (St Lucia)
Pelf
Nnika Francis (Grenada)
Problem Child (St. Vincent)
Luni and Electrify (Grenada)
Nadia Batson
Shurwayne Winchester
Faye-Ann Lyons
Bunji Garlin
Blaxx
Iwer George

LATEST CARNIVAL 2K8 FETES UPDATE

Wednesday January 23rd, 2008
* Carnival Under The Trees (Pan Gone Mad 3) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS

Friday January 25th, 2008
* International Soca Monarch Semi-Finals
* Carnival Under The Trees (Jumbie Bead) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Army Fete
* Misty Ridge All-Inclusive - Hadeed Ranch

Saturday January 26th, 2008
* Red Cross Kiddies Carnival, Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 11am
* Fatima College All-Inclusive - Fatima Grounds, Mucurapo Rd - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Kitchener Forever) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* White Oak Chutney Brass 7 - Guaracara Park (Point-A-Pierre) - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Outspoken - Roger Gibbon St, Barataria - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Machel's Alternative Concept 6 - Haseley Crawford Stadium - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Kama Sutra 7 - Country Club, Maraval - 10pm - VIEW DETAILS
* AS Brydens 9th Annual All Inclusive
* Victoria Gardens All Inclusive

Sunday January 27th, 2008
* Jamboree Sunday - Jamboree Park, Valsayn - 2pm
* CAREC All-Inclusive - Federation Park (St. Clair) - 2pm
* Nestle Annual All-Inclusive - Churchill Roosevelt Hwy, Valsayn - 2pm
* Hearts on Fire All-Inclusive - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 5pm
* Pan Trinbago National Panorama Semi-Finals - 6pm
* T&Tec Soca Shoka VIII - St John's Complex - VIEW DETAILS
* Georgian Jubilation VI All-Inclusive - St George's College's (Barataria)
* UNC All-Inclusive Fete
* Heart Beat Hilton

Monday January 28th, 2008
* Link Up Cruise V - Chaguaramas
* PNM Fete - Balisier House, Victoria Ave. POS - 9pm
* Mardi Gras 2K8 - 10pm
* Smile All-Inclusive

Tuesday January 29th, 2008
* A.W.O.L. - Macqueripe Rd, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Tranquillity 2K8 Boat Cruise - Treasure Queen (Pier 2, Chaguaramas) - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Baron & Friends) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm
* Eyes Wide Shut CARNIVALE - Queens Park Oval - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Island Style Glow '08 - 10pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Just Friends All-Inclusive - Frankie's Place, Diego Martin - VIEW DETAILS
* Bishops Junior School All-Inclusive Fete

Wednesday January 30th, 2008
* S.O.S. - Maracas - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* The Ranch - Cunupia
* Carnival Under The Trees (Bring Dat Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Custom Boys 'Soca Declaration' - Hasely Crawford Stadium, POS - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Fete`n with the Stars - The Harvard Club (St. James) - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Bacchanal Wednesday - The Hanger, Chaguaramas - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS

Thursday January 31st, 2008
* Headley All Inclusive Fete - Salybia - 11am - VIEW DETAILS
* Beach House Carnival - Ortinola Estate (Maracas) - 11am - VIEW DETAILS
* Alternative Thursdays, Down the Islands - 11am
* Blanchisseuse All-Inclusive - 11am
* La Flor’s 'Melange' Carnival Cruise - Pier 1 Marines, Chaguaramas - 12pm
* SS Wassy Big Boatride - Treasure Queen - Pier 2, Chagaramas - 7pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Machel In Concert - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 9pm
* TRIBE Ignite Fete - Queen's Park Oval - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* UWI Splash - Chaguaramas - 9pm
* T&T Police Assoc. Annual Carnival Fete - Police Training College
* Island People Carnival Event

Friday February 1st, 2008
* Silver Mist Boatride - Treasure Queen, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Blue Range Cooler Fete - Diego Martin
* Break Biche Premium All-Inclusive - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Taste of Carnival All-Inclusive - TTHTI Compound, Airways Rd, Chaguaramas - 12pm
* Fantastic Friday (Soca Monarch Finals) - Queens Park Oval - 7pm
* Under The Trees (Kitchener Come Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* IslandPeople Girl Power - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Rise All-Inclusive - Moka, Maraval - 9pm3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* D'Cooler Fete - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 9pm
* IMAGINE Drinks Inclusive
* Options All-Inclusive - VIEW DETAILS

Saturday February 2nd, 2008
* Jamboree - "EUPHORIA" All Inclusive - Jamboree Park, Valsayn - 3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Atlantis 4—D Ultra All-Inclusive - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Eclipze All-Inclusive - The North Deck, Maraval - VIEW DETAILS
* Pan Trinbago National Panorama Finals - Skinner Park, San Fernando - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Monarchs Back to Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Chutney Survivor Cooler Fete 2, Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre - 9pm
* Island Style Insomnia Fete - Mobs 2 (Chaguaramas)
* Trini Posse Fete - The Hanger, Chaguaramas - VIEW DETAILS
* Dawn, Sunrise In The City
* Sunrise - San Fernando Hill
* Lions All Inclusive Fete - Lions Civic Centre (Port of Spain)

Sunday February 3rd, 2008 (Carnival Sunday)
* D’Original Breakfast Party - Diamond Vale, Diego Martin - 1am - VIEW DETAILS
* Sunny Side Up Breakfast Party - Palm Avenue West, Petit Valley - 4am - VIEW DETAILS
* Sanctuary (Headley All-Inclusive) - Windsor Road, Valsayn - 11am
* Atlantis Booze Cruise - Chaguaramas - 11am
* Brian Lara All-Inclusive Fete - Chancellor Hill, Queen's Park West - 2pm
* Moka Explosion All-Inclusive - St. Andrews Golf Club - Moka, Maraval - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* T&T Involvers Boat Cruise - Treasure Queen, Pier 2 (Chaguaramas) - 3pm
* Harvard Club All-Inclusive Fete - Harvard Club, St. James - 4pm
* Dimanche Gras, Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 7pm
* Mania - Country Club - 9pm
* Hilton Poolside - Hilton Hotel (Lady Young Rd, Port of Spain) - 9pm
* Is Just A Fete (TASA) - Queen's Hall, Port-of-Spain
* Cotton Tree Foundation All Inclusive Fete - Spanish Acres

Monday February 4th, 2008
* J'Ouvert (4am)
* Parade of the Bands
* Carnival Jump Up - Hilton Hotel (Lady Young Rd, Port of Spain)
* Monday Night Mas - Paramin Hill

Tuesday February 5th, 2008
* Parade of the Bands - Judging points @ Adam Smith Square, Piccadilly on the Greens, Queen's Park South
* Pan Trinbago Pan on the Road - Victoria Square and Downtown POS
* Pan Trinbago Las' Lap - Western Main Rd, St James

Wednesday February 6th, 2007
* Flip Flops Ash Wednesday Cool Down - Mt Anne Dr, Cascade - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Beach Lime - Maracas Bay, Las Cuevas, Blanchisseuse Bay
* Wild Meat Cool Down - Balandra Bay
* Ash Wed Boatride - Treasure Queen (Pier 2, Chaguaramas)
* Chutney Soca Tent - Quinam Beach
* 3rd Annual Ash Wednesday River Lime - De Freitas Ranch, Valencia
* Annual Lagniappe - De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp), Woodbrook - 9pm

Latest TORONTO-LIME.com Photos

* Panorama Preliminaries (Jan 20 '08)
* Doh Cry Ah Leavin' XIII (Jan 19 '08)
* Memoirs of Soca (Jan 19 '08)
* Stricty Soca (Miami) (Jan 19 '08)
* Ladies First (T&T) (Jan 18 '08)
* I Like (Jan 18 '08)
* Klassic Russo Clash (Jan 17 '08)

Pic of the week...

Dancers on stage at Ladies First in Pier 1 Friday Night
(Photo by Mariamma Kambon www.mariamma.com)

Updated Carnival Event Schedule

Saturday January 19th, 2008
* Junior Calypso Monarch Semi-Finals - Strand Entertainment, Dundonald St, POS - (10am)

Sunday January 20th, 2008
* Pan Trinbago North/East Panorama Preliminaries - 9am

Monday January 21st, 2008
* Young Kings Calypso Monarch Final

Tuesday January 22nd, 2008
* Northern Region Soca In Pan - Northern Greens, QPS (7pm)

Wednesday January 23rd, 2008
* National Extempo & Limbo Prelims - Strand Entertainment, Dundonald St, POS (10am)

Thursday January 24th, 2008
* Downtown Carnival Launch - City Hall, Hart Street, Port-of-Spain, 5pm
* Kings & Queens Prelims - Northern Greens, QPS (8pm)

Friday January 25th, 2008
* International Soca Monarch Semi-Finals

Saturday January 26th, 2008
* Red Cross Kiddies Carnival - Port of Spain (11am-1pm)
* Single Pam Semis - Victoria Square, POS (6pm)
* Calypso "Fiesta" Monarch Semi Final - Skinner Park, San Fernando (12pm)

Sunday January 27th, 2008
* Pan Trinbago National Panorama Semi-Finals - 6pm
* NCBA Junior Kings/Queens/ Individuals Prelims - Jean Pierre Complex (9am)
* St. James Junior Street Parade - Western Main Rd, St. James (1:30pm)

Monday January 28th, 2008
* Junior Panorama Finals - Northern Greens, QPS (9am)
* Junior Calypso Monarch Finals - Northern Greens, QPS (10am)
* Unattached Calypso Monarch Finals - Picadilly Greens, POS (7pm)

Tuesday January 29th, 2008
* Kings & Queens Semi-Finals / Jr. Kings & Queens Finals - Northern Greens, QPS (7pm)

Wednesday January 30th, 2008
* South Central Zone Calypso Finals - Skinner Park, San Fernando (7pm)
* National Small Bands & National Single Pan Bands Finals - Northern Greens, QPS (7pm)
* Senior Individuals/Traditional/Conventional Mas Competition - Northern Greens, QPS (8pm)
Thursday January 31st, 2008
* Pan Trinbago Panorama Finals (Small Orchestras) - Skinner Park (San Fernando)
* National Extempo & Limbo Finals - Jean Pierre Complex, POS (7pm)

Friday February 1st, 2008
* Canboulay Re-Enactment - Duke St (5am)
* Parade of Traditional Mas Characters - Downton Port-of-Spain (noon)
* International Soca Monarch Finals - Queens Park Oval, Woodbrook (7pm)

Saturday February 2nd, 2008
* NCBA/Sunshine Snacks Junior Parade of the Bands - St. Vincent St to Queen's Park Savannah Judging Site (8am)
* National Panorama Finals - Skinner Park, San Fernando (5pm)

Sunday February 3rd, 2008
* Nostalgia (Traditional Parade) - Piccadilly Greens to Adam Smith Square (8am)
* Dimanche Gras (Kings & Queens of Carnival / Calypso Monarch Finals) - Northern Greens, QPS (7pm)

Monday February 4th, 2008 (Carnival Monday)
* J'Ouvert - South Quay, Port of Spain (4am)
* Parade of the Bands - Streets of Port of Spain (11am-8pm)
* Pan on the Road - Victoria Square & Streets of Port-of-Spain
* Monday Night Mas - Victoria Square, Port of Spain

Tuesday February 5th, 2008 (Carnival Tuesday)
* Parade of the Bands - Judging points @ Adam Smith Square, Piccadilly on the Greens, Queen's Park South (11am-8pm)
* Pan Trinbago Pan on the Road - Victoria Square & Streets of Port-of-Spain
* Pan Trinbago Las' Lap - Western Main Rd, St James

Saturday February 9th, 2008
* Champs In Concert - Northern Greens, QPS (8pm)

Trinidad Fetes & All-Inclusives 2008 Update

Wednesday January 16th, 2008
* Carnival Under The Trees (Kick-Off) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS

Thursday January 17th, 2008
* Yogah - UWI Grounds, St Augustine - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS

Friday January 18th, 2008
* TCL All-Inclusive - TCL Poolside - 7pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Central Bank All Inclusive (Secret Garden) - Eric Williams Plaza, POS - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Ladies Night Out 5 - Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 8pm
* Ladies First 2K8 - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* National Flour Mills Fete

Saturday January 19th, 2008
* Republic Bank Fete - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Belex All-Inclusive 3 - Lion's Cultural Centre - 6:30pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Chutney Soca Monach Finals - Skinner Park - 8pm
* NGC Sports Club All-Inclusive - Country Club -4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* O' Farrell's All-Inclusive - Mobs 2, Chaguaramas - 8pm
* Blue Range All Inclusive - Diego Martin
* South Cancer Society All-Inclusive
* Royal Bank All-Inclusive - Pier 1 (Chaguaramas)

Sunday January 20th, 2008
* Pan Trinbago North/East Panorama Preliminaries - Queens Park Savannah - 9am
* Kiddies Carnival, St Anthony’s College - Westmoorings - 1pm
* UWI 17th Annual All-Inclusive - UWI Grounds (St Augustine) - 2pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Friends of Blood Bank Fete All-Inclusive - 2pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Mc Leod Annual All-Inclusive - 2pm
* Karambouly Kreations All-Inclusive - Twin Walls, La Romain - 2pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Maritime All-Inclusive

Wednesday January 23rd, 2008
* Carnival Under The Trees (Pan Gone Mad 3) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS

Friday January 25th, 2008
* International Soca Monarch Semi-Finals
* Carnival Under The Trees (Jumbie Bead) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Army Fete
* Misty Ridge All-Inclusive - Hadeed Ranch

Saturday January 26th, 2008
* Red Cross Kiddies Carnival, Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 1pm
* Fatima College All-Inclusive - Fatima Grounds, Mucurapo Rd - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Kitchener Forever) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* White Oak Chutney Brass 7 - Guaracara Park (Point-A-Pierre) - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Outspoken - Roger Gibbon St, Barataria - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Machel's Alternative Concept 6 - Haseley Crawford Stadium, Wrightson Rd, POS - 10pm
* Kama Sutra 7 - Country Club, Maraval - 10pm
* AS Brydens 9th Annual All Inclusive
* Victoria Gardens All Inclusive

Sunday January 27th, 2008
* Jamboree Sunday - Jamboree Park, Valsayn - 2pm
* CAREC All-Inclusive - Federation Park (St. Clair) - 2pm
* Nestle Annual All-Inclusive - Churchill Roosevelt Hwy, Valsayn - 2pm
* Hearts on Fire All-Inclusive - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 5pm
* Pan Trinbago National Panorama Semi-Finals - Queens Park Savannah - 6pm
* T&Tec Soca Shoka VIII - St John's Complex - VIEW DETAILS
* Georgian Jubilation VI All-Inclusive - St George's College's (Barataria)
* UNC All-Inclusive Fete
* Heart Beat Hilton

Monday January 28th, 2008
* Link Up Cruise V - Chaguaramas
* PNM Fete - Balisier House, Victoria Ave. POS - 9pm
* Mardi Gras 2K8 - 10pm
* Smile All-Inclusive

Tuesday January 29th, 2008
* A.W.O.L. - Macqueripe Rd, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Tranquillity 2K8 Boat Cruise - Treasure Queen (Pier 2, Chaguaramas) - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Baron & Friends) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm
* Eyes Wide Shut CARNIVALE - Queens Park Oval - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Island Style Glow '08 - 10pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Just Friends All-Inclusive - Frankie's Place, Diego Martin - VIEW DETAILS
* Bishops Junior School All-Inclusive Fete

Wednesday January 30th, 2008
* S.O.S. - Maracas - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* The Ranch - Cunupia
* Carnival Under The Trees (Bring Dat Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Custom Boys 'Soca Declaration' - Hasely Crawford Stadium, POS - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Fete`n with the Stars - The Harvard Club (St. James) - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Bacchanal Wednesday - Chaguaramas - 10pm

Thursday January 31st, 2008
* Headley All Inclusive Fete - Salybia - 11am - VIEW DETAILS
* Beach House Carnival - Ortinola Estate (Maracas) - 11am - VIEW DETAILS
* Alternative Thursdays, Down the Islands - 11am
* Blanchisseuse All-Inclusive - 11am
* La Flor’s 'Melange' Carnival Cruise - Pier 1 Marines, Chaguaramas - 12pm
* SS Wassy Big Boatride - Treasure Queen - Pier 2, Chagaramas - 7pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Machel In Concert - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 9pm
* TRIBE Carnival Thursday - Queen's Park Oval - 9pm
* UWI Splash - Chaguaramas - 9pm
* T&T Police Assoc. Annual Carnival Fete - Police Training College
* Island People Carnival Event

Friday February 1st, 2008
* Silver Mist Boatride - Treasure Queen, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Blue Range Cooler Fete - Diego Martin
* Break Biche Premium All-Inclusive - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Taste of Carnival All-Inclusive - TTHTI Compound, Airways Rd, Chaguaramas - 12pm
* Fantastic Friday (Soca Monarch Finals) - Queens Park Oval - 7pm
* Under The Trees (Kitchener Come Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* IslandPeople Girl Power - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Rise All-Inclusive - Moka, Maraval - 9pm3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* D'Cooler Fete - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 9pm
* IMAGINE Drinks Inclusive
* Options All-Inclusive - VIEW DETAILS

Saturday February 2nd, 2008
* Jamboree - "EUPHORIA" All Inclusive - Jamboree Park, Valsayn - 3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Atlantis 4—D Ultra All-Inclusive - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Eclipze All-Inclusive - The North Deck, Maraval - VIEW DETAILS
* Pan Trinbago National Panorama Finals - Skinner Park, San Fernando - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Monarchs Back to Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Chutney Survivor Cooler Fete 2, Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre - 9pm
* Island Style Insomnia Fete - Mobs 2 (Chaguaramas)
* Trini Posse Fete - Chaguaramas
* Dawn, Sunrise In The City
* Sunrise - San Fernando Hill
* Lions All Inclusive Fete - Lions Civic Centre (Port of Spain)

Sunday February 3rd, 2008 (Carnival Sunday)
* D’Original Breakfast Party - Diamond Vale, Diego Martin - 1am
* Sunny Side Up Breakfast Party - Palm Avenue West, Petit Valley - 4am - VIEW DETAILS
* Sanctuary (Headley All-Inclusive) - Windsor Road, Valsayn - 11am
* Atlantis Booze Cruise - Chaguaramas - 11am
* Brian Lara All-Inclusive Fete - Chancellor Hill, Queen's Park West - 2pm
* Moka Explosion All-Inclusive - St. Andrews Golf Club - Moka, Maraval - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* T&T Involvers Boat Cruise - Treasure Queen, Pier 2 (Chaguaramas) - 3pm
* Harvard Club All-Inclusive Fete - Harvard Club, St. James - 4pm
* Dimanche Gras, Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 7pm
* Mania - Country Club - 9pm
* Hilton Poolside - Hilton Hotel (Lady Young Rd, Port of Spain) - 9pm
* Is Just A Fete (TASA) - Queen's Hall, Port-of-Spain
* Cotton Tree Foundation All Inclusive Fete - Spanish Acres

Monday February 4th, 2008
* J'Ouvert (4am)
* Parade of the Bands
* Carnival Jump Up - Hilton Hotel (Lady Young Rd, Port of Spain)
* Monday Night Mas - Paramin Hill

Tuesday February 5th, 2008
* Parade of the Bands - Judging points @ Adam Smith Square, Piccadilly on the Greens, Queen's Park South
* Pan Trinbago Pan on the Road - Victoria Square and Downtown POS
* Pan Trinbago Las' Lap - Western Main Rd, St James

Wednesday February 6th, 2007
* Flip Flops Ash Wednesday Cool Down - Mt Anne Dr, Cascade - VIEW DETAILS
* Beach Lime - Maracas Bay, Las Cuevas, Blanchisseuse Bay
* Wild Meat Cool Down - Balandra Bay
* Ash Wed Boatride - Treasure Queen (Pier 2, Chaguaramas)
* Chutney Soca Tent - Quinam Beach
* 3rd Annual Ash Wednesday River Lime - De Freitas Ranch, Valencia
* Annual Lagniappe - De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp), Woodbrook - 9pm

Thursday February 7th, 2008
* Annual Lagniappe - De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp), Woodbrook - 9pm

Friday February 8th, 2008
* Caribbean Wet Fete - Tobago

Saturday February 9th, 2008
* Pan Trinbago Champs in Concert 2K8 - 8pm

Latest TORONTO-LIME.com Photos

* WITCO ONE Fete (Jan 13 '08)
* Soca Launch 2K8 (Jan 12 '08)
* Snowflakes On Steel (Jan 12 '08)
* Wicked In White (Jan 12 '08)
* Scorching Bazodee (Jan 11 '08)

Pic of the Week

Kees Dieffenthaller & Nadia Batson on stage at WITCO ONE FETE in T&T
Photo by Mariamma Kambon www.mariamma.com

Trinidad and Tobago Calypso Tents 2008

* Calypso Revue
SWWTU Hall, Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain
Opens Jan 4 '08
View 2008 Cast

* Generation Next Kaiso Tent
St James Amphitheatre, St James
Opens Jan 11 '08

* Glow Calypso Tent
Tinos, Wilson Road, Scarborough, Tobago
Opens Jan 6 '08

* Icons Calypso Tent
Ambassador Hotel, Long Circular
Opens Jan 4 '08

* Kaiso House
Strand Entertainment Centre, Tragarete Road, POS
Opens Jan 3 '08
View 2008 Cast

* Kaiso Karavan
Plaisance Park Regional Complex, Pointe-a-Pierre
Opens Jan 5 '08
View 2008 Cast

* Kaiso Showkase
Palms Club, Pointe-a-Pierre Road, San Fernando
Opens Jan 10 '08
View 2008 Cast

* Klassic Ruso Calypso Tent
City Hall, Knox Street, POS
Opens Jan 4 '08
View 2008 Cast

* Rainbow Calypso Tent and Birds Calypso Tent
Palms Club, Pointe-a-Pierre Road, San Fernando
Opens Jan 15 '08

* Top of the Line Calypso Tent
Larchands Pub, Belle Garden Tobago
Opens Jan 6 '08

* Vintage Kaiso Brigade
Little Carib Theatre, Woodbrook, POS
Opens Jan 10 '08

Unconfirmed Tents
Chutney Tent
Divas Calypso Cabaret
Eastern Stars Calypso Tent - Charlotteville, Tobago
House of Stars Calypso Tent - Wrightson Rd, Port of Spain
Massive Gosein's Chutney Tent
Original Youth Brigade - Lions Civic Centre, Circular Rd, San Fernando
Spektakula - Jean Pierre Complex, Wrightson Rd, Port of Spain
Talk Tent - Queens Hall - 868-624-1284
Power House Tent - Charlotteville , Tobago
Tbitt Calypso Tent - Phoenix Entertainment Center, Bon Accord, Tobago
Yangatang - City Hall, Port of Spain

http://www.toronto-lime.com/carnival/tnt_calypso_tents.htm

Disclaimer: Toronto-Lime.com provides information about events as a service to both the promoters and Toronto-Lime.com visitors. Inclusion in this website of event information does not constitute an endorsement or a recommendation. Toronto-Lime.com cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the event information nor for any injury or loss that may occur to those who chose to attend an event. Although reasonable efforts are made to ensure the information provided is accurate, Toronto-Lime.com recommends that you call the promoter or visit their website before attending its event to confirm the date, location, and other details.

2008 International Soca Monarch Semi-Finalists announced

Defending champion Iwer George performing at the 2007 Int'l Soca Monarch Finals

Sixty-two artists have been announced to compete at the 2008 Soca Monarch semi-finals. Only twenty (10 power/10 groovy) will move forward to 'Fantastic Friday' (Int'l Soca Monarch Finals) to be held on Carnival Friday February 1st.

3-time Soca Monarch winner Bunji Garlin has returned to once again face off against current title holder Iwer George. Also making a grand return is Soca Monarch's all-time title winner, Superblue, who will look to add to his record 5 wins.

In the Groovy Soca Monarch category, Biggie Irie will defend against some veteran talent as well as the likes of new-comers Kees Dieffenthaller and Zoelah to the competition.

The 2008 semi-finals takes place on Friday January 25th, and the finals will take place on Friday February 1st at the Queens Park Oval.

The power and groovy soca monarch semi-finalists are as follows:

GROOVY SOCA MONARCH SEMI-FINALISTS
1. Ainsley King
2. Brent Anthony
3. C'Donnia
4. Cassi
5. Devon Matthews
6. Eunice Peters
7. Farmer Nappy
8. Gary Cordner
9. Jamesy P (St. Vincent)
10. Kees Dieffenthaller
11. Keegan Taylor
12. Laura Pereira
13. Mr Dale (Barbados)
14. Michelle Sylvester
15. Mr Chucky
16. Nadia Batson
17. Patrice Roberts
18. Peter C Lewis
19. Peter Ram (Barbados)
20. Skhi
21. Shal Marchall
22. Shurwayne Winchester
23. Terry Seales
24. Teddison John (St. Lucia)
25. Tony Prescott
26. Tizzy (Antigua)
27. Third Bass
28. Tracey D
29. Zoelah (St. Vincent)
30. 3Suns
31. Marie Anne
32. Faye-Ann Lyons

POWER SOCA MONARCH SEMI-FINALISTS
1. Allan Piper
2. Blaxx
3. Bunji Garlin
4. Crazy
5. Dawg-E-Slaughter
6. Denise Belfon
7. Eustace and Phive Pound
8. Fireball
9. Kurt Allen
10. Keisha Stewart
10. Lil Rick
11. Lil Bits
12. Luni and Electrify
13. Nadia Batson
14. Nnika (Grenada)
15. Ms Alysha
16. Olatunji Yearwood
17. Patch
18. Pelf
19. Problem Child
20. Ricky T
21. Rootsman
22. Rita Jones
23. Shurwayne Winchester
24. Sanelle Dempster
25. Sean Caruth
26. Super Blue
27. Tizzy
28. Young Marcel
29. Blazer
30. Faye-Ann Lyons

Latest T&T Carnival 2K8 Fete Schedule

Wednesday January 16th, 2008
* Carnival Under The Trees (Kick-Off) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS

Thursday January 17th, 2008
* Yogah - UWI Grounds, St Augustine - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS

Friday January 18th, 2008
* TCL All-Inclusive - TCL Poolside - 7pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Central Bank All Inclusive (Secret Garden) - Eric Williams Plaza, POS - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Ladies Night Out 5 - Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 8pm
* Ladies First 2K8 - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* National Flour Mills Fete

Saturday January 19th, 2008
* Republic Bank Fete - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Belex All-Inclusive 3 - Lion's Cultural Centre - 6:30pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Chutney Soca Monach Finals - Skinner Park - 8pm
* NGC Sports Club All-Inclusive - Country Club -4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* O' Farrell's All-Inclusive - Mobs 2, Chaguaramas - 8pm
* Blue Range All Inclusive - Diego Martin
* South Cancer Society All-Inclusive
* Royal Bank All-Inclusive - Pier 1 (Chaguaramas)

Sunday January 20th, 2008
* Pan Trinbago Panorama Semi-Finals - 11am
* Kiddies Carnival, St Anthony’s College - Westmoorings - 1pm
* UWI 17th Annual All-Inclusive - UWI Grounds (St Augustine) - 2pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Friends of Blood Bank Fete All-Inclusive - 2pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Mc Leod Annual All-Inclusive - 2pm
* Karambouly Kreations All-Inclusive - Twin Walls, La Romain - 2pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Maritime All-Inclusive

Wednesday January 23rd, 2008
* Carnival Under The Trees (Pan Gone Mad 3) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS

Friday January 25th, 2008
* International Soca Monarch Semi-Finals
* Carnival Under The Trees (Jumbie Bead) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Army Fete
* Misty Ridge All-Inclusive - Hadeed Ranch

Saturday January 26th, 2008
* Red Cross Kiddies Carnival, Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 1pm
* Fatima College All-Inclusive - Fatima Grounds, Mucurapo Rd - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Kitchener Forever) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* White Oak Chutney Brass 7 - Guaracara Park (Point-A-Pierre) - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Outspoken - Roger Gibbon St, Barataria - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Machel's Alternative Concept 6 - Haseley Crawford Stadium, Wrightson Rd, POS - 10pm
* Kama Sutra VII - Country Club, Maraval - 10pm
* AS Brydens 9th Annual All Inclusive
* Victoria Gardens All Inclusive

Sunday January 27th, 2008
* Jamboree Sunday - Jamboree Park, Valsayn - 2pm
* CAREC All-Inclusive - Federation Park (St. Clair) - 2pm
* Nestle Annual All-Inclusive - Churchill Roosevelt Hwy, Valsayn - 2pm
* Hearts on Fire All-Inclusive - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 5pm
* T&Tec Soca Shoka VIII - St John's Complex - VIEW DETAILS
* Georgian Jubilation VI All-Inclusive - St George's College's (Barataria)
* UNC All-Inclusive Fete
* Heart Beat Hilton

Monday January 28th, 2008
* Link Up Cruise V - Chaguaramas
* PNM Fete - Balisier House, Victoria Ave. POS - 9pm
* Mardi Gras 2K8 - 10pm
* Smile All-Inclusive

Tuesday January 29th, 2008
* A.W.O.L. - Macqueripe Rd, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Tranquillity 2K8 Boat Cruise - Treasure Queen (Pier 2, Chaguaramas) - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Baron & Friends) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm
* Eyes Wide Shut CARNIVALE - Queens Park Oval - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Island Style Glow '08 - 10pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Just Friends All-Inclusive - Frankie's Place, Diego Martin - VIEW DETAILS
* Bishops Junior School All-Inclusive Fete

Wednesday January 30th, 2008
* S.O.S. - Maracas - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* The Ranch - Cunupia
* Carnival Under The Trees (Bring Dat Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Custom Boys Pan-o-Brass Fete - Hasely Crawford Stadium, POS - 9pm
* Fete`n with the Stars - The Harvard Club (St. James) - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Bacchanal Wednesday - Chaguaramas - 10pm

Thursday January 31st, 2008
* Headley All Inclusive Fete - Salybia - 11am - VIEW DETAILS
* Beach House Carnival - Ortinola Estate (Maracas) - 11am - VIEW DETAILS
* Alternative Thursdays, Down the Islands - 11am
* Blanchisseuse All-Inclusive - 11am
* La Flor’s 'Melange' Carnival Cruise - Pier 1 Marines, Chaguaramas - 12pm
* SS Wassy Big Boatride - Treasure Queen - Pier 2, Chagaramas - 7pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Machel In Concert - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 9pm
* TRIBE Carnival Thursday - Queen's Park Oval - 9pm
* UWI Splash - Chaguaramas - 9pm
* T&T Police Assoc. Annual Carnival Fete - Police Training College
* Island People Carnival Event

Friday February 1st, 2008
* Silver Mist Boatride - Treasure Queen, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Blue Range Cooler Fete - Diego Martin
* Break Biche Premium All-Inclusive - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Taste of Carnival All-Inclusive - TTHTI Compound, Airways Rd, Chaguaramas - 12pm
* Fantastic Friday (Soca Monarch Finals) - Queens Park Oval - 7pm
* Under The Trees (Kitchener Come Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* IslandPeople Girl Power - 9pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Rise All-Inclusive - Moka, Maraval - 9pm3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* D'Cooler Fete - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 9pm
* IMAGINE Drinks Inclusive
* Options All-Inclusive - VIEW DETAILS

Saturday February 2nd, 2008
* Jamboree - "EUPHORIA" All Inclusive - Jamboree Park, Valsayn - 3pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Atlantis 4—D Ultra All-Inclusive - Pier 1, Chaguaramas - 4pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Eclipze All-Inclusive - The North Deck, Maraval - VIEW DETAILS
* Pan Trinbago National Panorama Finals - Skinner Park, San Fernando - 7pm
* Carnival Under The Trees (Monarchs Back to Back) - Normandie Hotel, 10 Nook Av, St Ann - 8pm - VIEW DETAILS
* Chutney Survivor Cooler Fete 2, Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre - 9pm
* Island Style Insomnia Fete - Mobs 2 (Chaguaramas)
* Trini Posse Fete - Chaguaramas
* Dawn, Sunrise In The City
* Sunrise - San Fernando Hill
* Lions All Inclusive Fete - Lions Civic Centre (Port of Spain)

Sunday February 3rd, 2008 (Carnival Sunday)
* D’Original Breakfast Party - Diamond Vale, Diego Martin - 1am
* Sunny Side Up Breakfast Party - Palm Avenue West, Petit Valley - 4am - VIEW DETAILS
* Sanctuary (Headley All-Inclusive) - Windsor Road, Valsayn - 11am
* Atlantis Booze Cruise - Chaguaramas - 11am
* Brian Lara All-Inclusive Fete - Chancellor Hill, Queen's Park West - 2pm
* Moka Explosion All-Inclusive - St. Andrews Golf Club - Moka, Maraval - 12pm - VIEW DETAILS
* T&T Involvers Boat Cruise - Treasure Queen, Pier 2 (Chaguaramas) - 3pm
* Harvard Club All-Inclusive Fete - Harvard Club, St. James - 4pm
* Dimanche Gras, Jean Pierre Complex, POS - 7pm
* Mania - Country Club - 9pm
* Hilton Poolside - Hilton Hotel (Lady Young Rd, Port of Spain) - 9pm
* Is Just A Fete (TASA) - Queen's Hall, Port-of-Spain
* Cotton Tree Foundation All Inclusive Fete - Spanish Acres

Monday February 4th, 2008
* J'Ouvert (4am)
* Parade of the Bands
* Carnival Jump Up - Hilton Hotel (Lady Young Rd, Port of Spain)
* Monday Night Mas - Paramin Hill

Tuesday February 5th, 2008
* Parade of the Bands - Judging points @ Adam Smith Square, Piccadilly on the Greens, Queen's Park South
* Pan Trinbago Pan on the Road - Victoria Square and Downtown POS
* Pan Trinbago Las' Lap - Western Main Rd, St James

Wednesday February 6th, 2007
* Flip Flops Ash Wednesday Cool Down - Mt Anne Dr, Cascade - VIEW DETAILS
* Beach Lime - Maracas Bay, Las Cuevas, Blanchisseuse Bay
* Wild Meat Cool Down - Balandra Bay
* Ash Wed Boatride - Treasure Queen (Pier 2, Chaguaramas)
* Chutney Soca Tent - Quinam Beach
* 3rd Annual Ash Wednesday River Lime - De Freitas Ranch, Valencia
* Annual Lagniappe - De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp), Woodbrook - 9pm

Thursday February 7th, 2008
* Annual Lagniappe - De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp), Woodbrook - 9pm

Friday February 8th, 2008
* Caribbean Wet Fete - Tobago

Saturday February 9th, 2008
* Pan Trinbago Champs in Concert 2K8 - 8pm

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Pic of the Week

Ian Andre Espinet celebrates at his annual birthday event - 'THE ONE'

The most anticipated SOCA night in Toronto - 'DR JAY'S RETURN FETE' is fast approaching.

KES the Band peforming at SOCA OR DIE!

Friday January 4th, 2007 - Toronto, ON, Canada - For most people, a new year begins on January 1st but for the soca lovers of the world, a new year is signified with the arrival of a new Carnival season. With the 2008 Trinidad Carnival just around the corner, Soca lovers are gearing up for a banner year of mas and music.

Presented after each Trinidad Carnival season, Toronto's Return Fete is an annual soca tradition in the city. Brought to us by Dr Jay De Soca Prince of the Kingdom Of Soca family, this initial soca injection sets the pace and tone for our city for the balance of the year. The Return Fete is Toronto's principal introduction to the flavor of a given year's Trinidad carnival season and for Saturday February 16th 2008, Dr Jay is presenting a twist on his annual signature concept. Dr Jay says, "In past years, I have featured individual singers for this event, but for the 2008 edition of Return Fete I am proud to bring one of the most versatile live bands out of the West Indies to my home town of Toronto." Crossing the seas to bring their unique soca sound to Toronto, Kes The Band is the featured performance announcement for the 13th Annual Return Fete.

Expanding the musical representation of Trinidad and Tobago above and beyond soca while always pushing boundaries, Kes The Band defies musical classification. Having demonstrated the versatility of the Trinidadian musical talent pool all over the world, Dr Jay is pleased to bring Kes The Band to Toronto as his featured artistes for the 2008 Return Fete

EVENT DETAILS:
Saturday February 16, 2008
"THE RETURN FETE"
Presented by Dr Jay de Soca Prince
Location: Kool Haus (132 Queen's Quay E.), Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Music By: Dr Jay de Soca Prince, MarXman, Soca Sweetness
Hosted By: E Man, Dirty Dez
Featuring: Kes The Band, in a full length live performance

WE Magazine celebrates Trinidad Carnival in its January issue by spotlighting 'Band of the Year' champion, Brian Mac Farlane

Wednesday January 2nd, 2008 - Toronto, ON, Canada - In its short six month existence, WE Magazine has managed some pretty impressive covers, including entertainment icons Alison Hinds, Machel Montano and Jah Cure; but to kick off the 2008 New Year, the mag has chosen not to feature a familiar face on the cover, but rather his masterful art. Brian Mac Farlane's 2008 presentation entitled 'EARTH' for Trinidad & Tobago Carnival gets the nod from WE in January as the Caribbean Canadian magazine showcases the man behind the 'Mas'. A very fitting cover considering we will soon be in the midst of the Trinidad Carnival season. The latest issue will also feature several other Carnival articles, including the history of Trinidad & Tobago Carnival, a Carnival newbie's guide and a 2008 fete schedule.

For the New Year, WE magazine has also announced two additional columns to its already diverse array of editorials. Along with the monthly music, entertainment, culture and artist spotlights, WE has added some eye candy with a page called 'WE Girl' (featuring a beauty of Caribbean roots each month), plus a humorous editorial by Mr PlayHouse (StarStruck Show on KOSradio.NET) entitled 'WE Bacchanal'. "We're not shifting our focus away from culture, art or community. Those things will always be key facets of our mandate," says Jef Lo (Editor in Chief). "WE wishes to showcase the many talents of our heritage, including our beautiful women. Plus, the addition of Mr PlayHouse's column will give readers some great insight as well as a good laugh ".

The magazine will be available in outlets this weekend (Jan 5th). For more information about WE Magazine visit www.WEmagOnline.com or www.MySpace.com/WEmagOnline.

Pic of the Week

from 'CLASS AFFAIR' - NYE Celebration @ Atlantis Nightclub
photo by Richard Daniel (www.PicsByRich.com)

For more photos see www.toronto-lime.com/pictures

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Pic of the Week

from Children of the 80's Party @ Haseley Crawford Stadium (Trinidad)
Photo by Kwesi Marcano - www.myspace.com/kwesimarcano